The salts X(NO₃)₂ and Y(NO₃)₂ (where X⁺ and Y⁺ are metal ions) are dissolved in water to give a solution which is 0.1 M in each of them. Using the K_sp values listed below, decide which aqueous reagent, if any, will definitely precipitate X⁺ before precipitating Y+ from solution. Given K_sp values: XCl₂, 1 × 10^-5 YCl₂, 1 × 10^-10 X(OH)₂, 1 × 10^-10 Y(OH)₂, 1 × 10^-5 A) 1 M NaCl B) 1 M HCl C) 1 M HNO₃ D) 1 M NaOH E) None of these choices are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To determine which reagent will definitely precipitate X+ before Y+, we need to compare their K_sp values. The higher the value, the less likely the ion is to precipitate. First, we need to compare XCl₂ and YCl₂. Since YCl₂ has a lower K_sp value, it is more likely to precipitate first. Next, we need to compare X(OH)₂ and Y(OH)₂. This time, X(OH)₂ has a lower K_sp value, making it more likely to precipitate before Y(OH)₂. Therefore, the best choice is a reagent that will precipitate X+ with high certainty before Y+. The only option that fits this criterion is 1 M NaOH, which will precipitate X(OH)₂ before Y(OH)₂ due to the higher K_sp value of Y(OH)₂.

The Salts X(NO3)2 and Y(NO3)2 (Where X+ and Y+ Are

The Salts X(NO₃)₂ and Y(NO₃)₂ (Where X⁺ and Y⁺ Are